If your walls have nail holes, cracks, nicks or flaking paint, follow these simple steps to properly prepare the surface so it’s smooth, dry and clean for painting.

1. For previously painted surfaces, begin by scraping off any loose, bubbling or flaking paint with a rigid putty knife.
2. Then smooth the area out with a fine-grit sanding sponge.
3. Be safe and wear safety glasses and a dust mask whenever scraping off paint or sanding down surfaces.

1. Fill any small holes and cracks with a spackling or patching compound. A flexible putty knife is best for working it in.
2. Swipe on the compound and gently remove as much excess as possible. This will make your job less messy when it comes to sanding.
   
3. Give the spackle a few hours to dry before smoothing it out with a fine-grit sanding sponge.

1. For larger holes or dents, use a self-adhesive fiberglass mesh tape stretched across the area you’re repairing.
   
2. Use a flexible putty knife to push spackling or patching compound into the hole, through and around the mesh.
3. Gently remove as much excess compound as possible while it is still wet.
4. Allow your compound to dry overnight and then smooth the surface with a fine-grit sandpaper or a sanding sponge.
5.  For easier cleanup and to protect your furnishings, lay down a drop cloth to catch the spackle dust.
6. After drying, if your patch isn’t perfectly smooth, apply a second coat of your compound. Let dry and repeat the same steps for sanding.

1. For glossy painted surfaces like your window and door trim, lightly sand to a dull finish.
2. Wipe clean with a slightly damp cloth. This will help your new coat of paint to adhere better.

Download our printable materials checklist and step-by-step guide